The industry has lost a true leader and great friend. Fred J. Whyte was one of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute’s (OPEI) longest serving board members, including acting as chair. Learn More.

REST IN PEACE, OUR FRIEND.

Fred J. Whyte and Lucky the TurfMutt in the Stihl offices

DROUGHT – LANDSCAPING DECISIONS

U.S. regions have experienced drought over the years. But drought isn't forever, and dealing with water availability shouldn’t have forever consequences. Reportedly, California spent more than $400 million in taxpayer money to encourage homeowners to replace living landscapes with rocks, mulch, gravel and plastic grass. But these knee-jerk policies caused long-term environmental consequences: dead and dying trees, loss of wildlife habitat and no place for kids and pets to play. One size doesn't fit all when it comes to managed landscapes. Know your zone & plant appropriately. Learn more.

RIGHT PLANT, RIGHT PLACE

Even in a drought, you can have grass and other living plants. You just have to choose the right kind of lawn and care for it properly. Follow these 3 guidelines:

KNOW YOUR CLIMATE ZONE: What plants will survive in your climate and micro-climate?

SELECT DROUGHT-TOLERANT PLANTS: Many species of grass and plants require very little water.

WATER WISELY: Only water when necessary. A brown lawn will green up when rains come. Learn more.

ETHANOL EDUCATION

The gas you put in your car may not be safe for small engines, UTVs and outdoor power equipment. Gasoline blends above E10 are not approved for small engines. As higher ethanol blends enter the marketplace, remember to select gasoline based on product specifications, not just price.

This event brings two tradeshows – GIE+EXPO and Hardscape North America – to one central location. It’s your best opportunity to see what’s new with outdoor power equipment and products for landscapes, gardens, outdoor leisure, hardscapes and light construction. 2016 GIE+EXPO was the largest ever, drawing more than 22,600 people to view 900+ exhibits. Sponsored by OPEI, Professional Grounds Management Society (PGMS) and National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), the show features a New Products Showcase, 676,000 square feet of indoor booths, a 20-acre outdoor demo area, and more! Contact Bill Sellers @bill@SellersUSA.com for more information.